By Adrian Morley Sydney Roosters forward and BBC Sport Online columnist

NRL leaders Newcastle Knights face second-placed Brisbane Broncos in a mammoth game on Friday.

But there is more riding on the match at the ANZ Stadium than just another two points.

Allan Langer's State of Origin future looks as though it could rest on the mouth-watering showdown.

Alfie made a sensational return to representative rugby league last season by helping Queensland to victory over New South Wales in the third and deciding Origin game.

And there is talk that he could be pulling the strings for the Maroons again when the two sides lock horns later this year.

But Langer was missing from Wayne Bennett's initial 22-man squad amid claims that he has yet to be convinced he can make a favourable impact this time around.

From what I've seen and heard, Alfie is playing well - and he will need to be at his best on Friday when he comes up against Newcastle magician Andrew Johns.

I guess Alfie will see how he measures up against the world's best player before he makes his decision whether to turn out for Queensland.